Constructing the Divine Abode of Dizang Bodhisattva

This book explores how Mount Jiuhua became the seat of Dizang Bodhisattva and evolved into a renowned Buddhist mountain during the late imperial period. The uncoordinated yet collective efforts of various interested parties shaped the dynamic interplay between tangible elements (mummies, masters, pilgrimage practices) and intangible factors (myths, popular literature), redefining and reinforcing the mountain’s divine status. By incorporating previously overlooked sources, such as inscriptions, amulets, drama scripts, and “underworld passes,” this study highlights the critical role of rank-and-file religious practitioners in the sacred place-making process.

Nan Ouyang, Ph.D. (2019), is an Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies at DePaul University. Her research interests include Buddhism in late imperial China, modernization of Chinese religions, sacred space, pilgrimage studies, and digital humanities. She has published on Chinese religions and Buddhism in journals such as Journal of Chinese Religions, Journal of Chinese Buddhist Studies, and Modern China.